Sanctuary (Sanctuary, #1) by Pauline Creeden

Jul 23, 2013 J.L. Mbewe rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

This book would not let me go.

First the nuts and bolts.

The characters. There are three main viewpoints: Jennie, Hugh, and Brad. I liked how the author subtly connected the viewpoints when she first introduced them to us. Hugh was a teacher Jennie knew; Hugh lost his girlfriend to Brad, his brother. Although, I wonder what purpose Brad will serve later on in the story as he seems to just be there to add conflict and contrast with his brother, so you know he's going to have to come up again. The This book would not let me go.

First the nuts and bolts.

The characters. There are three main viewpoints: Jennie, Hugh, and Brad. I liked how the author subtly connected the viewpoints when she first introduced them to us. Hugh was a teacher Jennie knew; Hugh lost his girlfriend to Brad, his brother. Although, I wonder what purpose Brad will serve later on in the story as he seems to just be there to add conflict and contrast with his brother, so you know he's going to have to come up again. The characters felt real with their own unique quirks, thoughts, and personalities. And when Jennie's dad handed her the hammer, I lost it.

The story. It was well-written and flowed well. The tension just kept building and building until you wonder when it was going to pop. Everything came to life. The setting, the characters, their problems, the presence of the aliens. I could just taste the tears, feel the fear, the pain, the loss, and the vibrations.

A few times I felt something was too easy. Just handed to me, telling me something, rather than letting me figuring it out for myself. Like when Jennie determines why she couldn't take anything from anyone. It was there in her character and actions, so I didn't think I needed to be told this directly. But then, I could relate to her need for wanting to help, to do something, and not just sit there.

The concept. I loved it. What if? What if the demons of Revelation were aliens? And they had blighted the water supply, diminished the sun, and killed 1/3 of the Earth's population. And what about Revelation 9:6, people wanting to die, but not being able to? Zombies??? The faith aspect breathes organically through the characters, and it does not try to preach or convert anyone, but to wonder, what if?

Yes, zombies, aliens, and the Apocalypse.

And the ending! It was so good, making me wish the sequel was already out. Although, I haven't been told there was sequel, but the way it ended, there better be. Ha!

Very clean read, if you don't mind a little gore. We are dealing with zombies here, but it wasn't over done either. If you love the end-of-the-world type of a story, a bit of horror, thriller, and a touch of romance, check it out!

*I was given an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
...more

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Feb 18, 2014 ♥♡¢σσкιє♥♡ (Krystle) rated it it was amazing

Shelves: horror, ya

You can read this review and more on my blog:

I received a free copy for this book from the author via YA Bound Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.

This book was a mixture of quite a few genres. There was a Science Fiction, Horror, and a hint if inspirational/Christian Fiction. I never would have thought that these things would blend well together, but somehow, they did.

The story is told from the point of views of three different characters. Jennie is a 19-year old college ...more

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Sep 14, 2014 ✿kawehi.reviews rated it really liked it

Shelves: review-copy, dystopian-post-apocalyptic

☆ I received an GCRBook Tours from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!! ☆

“And in the name of the star is Wormwood. A third of the waters turned bitter, and many people died from the waters that had become bitter.

The fourth angel sounded his trumpet, and a third of the sun was struck, a third of the moon, and a third of the stars, so that a third of them turned dark. A third of the day was without light, and also a third of the night.
As I watched, I heard an eagle that was fl ...more

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Jul 23, 2013 Melissa Lee rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

I was given a chance to read an ARC. I LOVE THIS BOOK. I was so scared for the 3 days I read it. I was scared to walk outside, scared to enter a building. I forgot I was reading a story. It all seemed so real. And I'm not a zombie fan but I loved this book.

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Aug 08, 2013 Toni rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Recommends it for: Fans of Post Apocalyptic, Horror, Zombies, Science Fiction

Shelves: zombies, horror, blog-tour, thriller, reviewed

Head on over to My Book Addiction for your chance to WIN some awesome Sanctuary goodies during the zOctober 2013 event!

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Sanctuary begins with the world still trying to process the fact that alien crafts have arrived on Earth. The aliens inside haven’t done anything in the six weeks since their arrival other than hover in their crafts and contaminate the water supply, but everyone is terrified and waiting for the other shoe to drop. Wow, does it ever drop hard! Jennie’s mom is the firs Head on over to My Book Addiction for your chance to WIN some awesome Sanctuary goodies during the zOctober 2013 event!

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Sanctuary begins with the world still trying to process the fact that alien crafts have arrived on Earth. The aliens inside haven’t done anything in the six weeks since their arrival other than hover in their crafts and contaminate the water supply, but everyone is terrified and waiting for the other shoe to drop. Wow, does it ever drop hard! Jennie’s mom is the first in her family to be injured by one of the creatures that escaped from the space crafts. Her dad rushes her to the hospital and Jennie is left behind to get her little brother ready and off to the hospital to meet them. On the way to the hospital Jennie sees all the chaos that has ensued since the creatures took over their town. The roads are full of bodies and abandoned vehicles, and the hospital parking lot is an even worse sight. Once inside all hell breaks loose. Nothing is ever going to be the same again.

Just to make sure we’re clear… you all know that a hospital is the last place you want to be when the undead begin to rise, right? Do NOT go to any hospital no matter who has been taken there! Whoever they were, they now want to eat your face off. If you’re already at a hospital when shit hits the fan, get the hell out and run or drive as far away as you can. You have been warned.

Jennie is our main character for the most part, but the story is told from several different POVs. I love stories that come at you from different angles because it gives such depth to the characters and richness to the plot. Hugh and Brad are brothers and we get to see this gruesome hell on earth through their eyes as well. They are complete opposites. Hugh is a super awesome guy that anyone would want at their side during an alien invasion/zombie apocalypse. Brad is a gold digging whore of a man that is so self-involved he makes you want to throw him straight into the mouths of the infected. I rooted for him to die — twisted, but true. We also get to know Jennie’s local pastor and his wife, awesome characters that provide light and hope for Jennie and her brother, Mickey, in these dark times. Trust me, they really need it.

This book starts off with a bang and made my heart start racing almost immediately. This is not your typical zombie novel. I love all things zombie related, as you must realize by now, but this story is especially unique due to the different elements that I never expected to find in zombie fiction. Sanctuary is a blend of science fiction, thriller, post-apocalyptic horror, zombies and even a bit of Christian fiction. This is a book unlike anything I’ve read before and I’m super happy that I was given the opportunity to read it for zOctober. All fans of horror, zombies and science fiction will want to get their hands on this as soon as possible! ...more

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Aug 04, 2014 Carol (StarAngel's Reviews) Allen rated it it was amazing

Shelves: post-apoco-loco, 5-star-books, zombies, new-adult

Wow!! What a different spin on the post apocalyptic madness. Aliens create the zombies....what a fresh idea. I LOVED this book - Once I started I couldn't put it down and the only problem I have with it is the ending and no book #2.

I want to know more about Jennie and Hugh - what happens with Brad? Where is the portal and can Hugh find it and keep it closed?

Gripping - thought provoking and entertaining the whole way through. Splash a bit of Christianity in there with some positive teachings and ...more

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Sep 18, 2013 Adam Collings rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: christian, science-fiction, speculative-fiction, suspense

An alien invasion which brings about a zombie-like plague, all set against the biblical end-times prophecies in the book of Revelation. This is a fantastic premise with which to begin a novel.

I enjoyed the combined sense of looming dread and awe that opens the book. Aliens have landed. They've done something to the sun and they've poisoned our water, but beyond that nothing. They just sit in their ships day in day out. Will they ever come out and make contact? Will they try to exterminate us? T An alien invasion which brings about a zombie-like plague, all set against the biblical end-times prophecies in the book of Revelation. This is a fantastic premise with which to begin a novel.

I enjoyed the combined sense of looming dread and awe that opens the book. Aliens have landed. They've done something to the sun and they've poisoned our water, but beyond that nothing. They just sit in their ships day in day out. Will they ever come out and make contact? Will they try to exterminate us? The characters just don't know.

I liked how the protagonist Jennie is suddenly thrust into a position of responsibility, having to be the parent figure for her little brother when things get desperate.

I wouldn't really call this an end-times novel in the traditional sense. Biblical prophecy is barely mentioned in the book. The links mostly come from the occasional quote from Revelation in the section breaks. The way the author has interpreted these quotes in a sci-fi context is very clever. You probably wouldn't want to base your end-times theology off the novel, but it's sure is a heck of a lot of fun. This is one of the things that make Christian speculative fiction interesting - the unique what-if questions that can arise.

I felt that there were some structural weaknesses in this book - in terms of plot and character. There were three point-of-view characters - Jennie, Hugh and Brad. A lot of the early Hugh and Brad scenes could probably have been cut, and their backstory woven in as reveals after they meet up with Jennie. Brad felt a little under-utilised like a dangling thread that didn't really go anywhere. Hugh's arc was very sudden - with him undergoing a change right at the end that left me feeling a little confused.

I hope the author writes a sequel because I feel there is a lot of unmet potential. In some ways this book feels like the first act of a larger story. If this book becomes a series I would read more as I enjoyed spending time in this world and happily continue.

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
...more

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Sep 29, 2013 Everything Marie rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Wow, this book was surprisingly pretty good. I really enjoyed it. And on top of all that, the story was based in my hometown in Virginia! Who knew right??!!

Okay, so right off the bat, the story starts off with Jennie, a college student experiencing the worst of all things. Within the first chapter, Earth has been invaded by aliens, well more precisely UFO's, (the silver saucers) and they have all settled above major cities all around the world. Jennie, along with her mother, father, and 5-year Wow, this book was surprisingly pretty good. I really enjoyed it. And on top of all that, the story was based in my hometown in Virginia! Who knew right??!!

Okay, so right off the bat, the story starts off with Jennie, a college student experiencing the worst of all things. Within the first chapter, Earth has been invaded by aliens, well more precisely UFO's, (the silver saucers) and they have all settled above major cities all around the world. Jennie, along with her mother, father, and 5-year old brother, are trying to cope with Earth's new visitors. First, the aliens attack the sun, making it more dimmer. The summers are colder, the winters are longer, and the plant-life is no more. Then, the aliens poison the water supply. The contamination wipes out one-third of Earth's population, killing humans and marine life as well.

Then, out off nowhere, the UFO's open and unleash creatures, who look like oversized dogs but move like lions, into the cities. The creatures attack the humans, of all ages, biting them profusely and causing some major bleeding. Unfortunately, Jennie's mother is a victim of the attack. Jennie's father rushes her mother to the hospital, so Jennie decides to drive separately with her brother, Mickey. Once they arrive, the hospital's emergency room is flooded with victims of the attack. People are crying, bleeding, and yelling in pain. The chaotic surroundings prevent Jennie from finding her folks right away and she is left caring for her brother. But something happens to the victims. They become violent and sluggish. They start wailing so loudly, it becomes deafening. Then, the victims start to attack doctors and nurses by biting them. Everyone is screaming! Blood is everywhere! Somehow, the alien attacks have altered the humans and they have become zombies! Whoa!!

I really liked this story. It shows the power that one girl can have, with the help of faith and hope. Jennie must overcome her fear of the unknown and take care of her brother. She is brave, nurturing, strong, and by far, kick-ass!! I loved her in this book. The story also portrays the life of Hugh, a biology teacher from Jennie's old high school. I loved, loved, loved Hugh! I really enjoyed reading his POV. He is smart, funny, brave, and so damn sexy, in a geeky kind of way! LOL

I still have a lot of questions that need answers as I felt there was a little cliffhanger at the end. So, I'm desperately hoping there is a sequel. All in all, this was an interesting read and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good zombie book, with a little romance. ...more

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Oct 16, 2013 Kimber Wheaton rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: ya

*I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*

Sanctuary is a fast-paced urban sci-fi suspense. While the protagonist's age it somewhere between YA and New Adult, I also feel it's suitable for middle school as well. In fact, I think the Middle Grade audience will really appreciate the non-stop action. Sanctuary is a clean read; I can't recall any use of offensive language, and the attacks, though bloodthirsty, are almost more interesting than violent.

Jennie is about to en *I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*

Sanctuary is a fast-paced urban sci-fi suspense. While the protagonist's age it somewhere between YA and New Adult, I also feel it's suitable for middle school as well. In fact, I think the Middle Grade audience will really appreciate the non-stop action. Sanctuary is a clean read; I can't recall any use of offensive language, and the attacks, though bloodthirsty, are almost more interesting than violent.

Jennie is about to enter her sophomore year of college. It's been a year since the aliens first appeared, attacking the sun and poisoning the water supply. When the new attacks surface, Jennie is separated from her parents, leaving her to care for her five year old brother, Mickey. Jennie is a wonderful girl. She's sweet and loyal; her patience is never-ending. Not only that, but she's strong, in body, spirit, and mind. She's a great role model for anyone.

Hugh Harris is a high school biology teacher that hides in his apartment after the attacks, watching everything play out on TV. He begins to develop his own theories about the alien attacks. When he decides he can't sit around doing nothing anymore, he runs into Jennie and her brother fleeing from the monsters. Hugh may be the only person who comprehends just what is happening from a biological standpoint. I really liked Hugh. Unlike his cad brother, Brad, Hugh is a gentleman and a scholar.

This story is told from multiple perspectives. At times I think it switches around a bit too much. It becomes rather distracting after a while. I don't think we needed Brad's perspective at all. He didn't bring much but a bad attitude to the party. This story is more about the people involved and less about the actual events. While I like reading about the characters, I wanted to know more about the aliens and the science behind the attacks. It's all hinted at but never delved into. I did enjoy how quickly things move forward; there was never a dull moment. The ending is not so much an ending as a potential new beginning, so I'm assuming there may be another book in the works. Faith plays a large role in the overall plot, so if that's not your thing, you may be disappointed.

Sanctuary is a good choice for everyone middle school and up that enjoys a fast paced adventure. Please keep in mind, the story contains monster attacks, blood/gore, and mass death. Some younger readers might find this book too scary. I plan to pass this recommendation on to my middle school-age son and his friends...they're all addicted to anything zombie right now :) ...more

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Jul 23, 2013 Amber rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Sanctuary by Pauline Creeden is an immensely introspective and fiercely volatile vision of the human heart and soul. The level of emotion and the depth of feeling that runs through the pages of this book will tear at your heart until only truth remains. This is one story that packs a huge punch in such a small package! You never know what is coming next, and that will have you biting your nails in both terrifying fear and eager anticipation. You will be at odds with yourself the entire time, but Sanctuary by Pauline Creeden is an immensely introspective and fiercely volatile vision of the human heart and soul. The level of emotion and the depth of feeling that runs through the pages of this book will tear at your heart until only truth remains. This is one story that packs a huge punch in such a small package! You never know what is coming next, and that will have you biting your nails in both terrifying fear and eager anticipation. You will be at odds with yourself the entire time, but you will not want to stop reading.

This is definitely one story that I never could even begin to anticipate what would happen next. I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed that! To say that I enjoyed this story would be grossly understating my feelings toward this beautiful masterpiece. Sanctuary pushed my comfort zone on so many different levels that I couldn’t possibly take them all in at once. My senses were on high alert the entire time, and I was awe of the heart and soul that permeated every word along the way. There were no idle or useless words written or spoken throughout; they were all immensely impactful and unreservedly invaluable.

The mix of genres in this story is truly shocking and utterly astonishing. The way that they are all effortlessly interwoven like they were always meant to be together is absolutely priceless and beyond words. Creeden is definitely an author that is not afraid to take changes and boldly pushes the literary envelope. My heart tells me that she has so much more to offer, and I for one can’t wait to see what comes next!

If you enjoy books that challenge you and force you to reevaluate everything you hold dear, then Sanctuary is a book that you have to read. It will make you think, force you to feel, and turn your world upside down and yet you will find yourself eagerly welcoming this whirlwind of change into your heart. You will beg for it not to stop until you have seen it through to the end because you just have to know what it is all about and what it means to you. ...more

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Aug 08, 2013 Alexia Purdy rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: to-review, arc, post-apocalyptic, zombies, fantasy, thriller, sci-fi, horror, survival, indie-book-challenge

This review first posted to my blog: http://alexiaepurdy.blogspot.com/2013...

If you love apocalyptic stories, this one would fit the bill. I was fortunate to get to read a beta edition of this book. Elements of the story could change prior to publication fyi.

Jennie Ransom finds herself in the middle of the apocalypse when UFO spaceships appear over cities on earth. Weeks later, everyone is trying to live a normal life but it all goes down the drain on one terrifying day.

What the heck happened? I This review first posted to my blog: http://alexiaepurdy.blogspot.com/2013...

If you love apocalyptic stories, this one would fit the bill. I was fortunate to get to read a beta edition of this book. Elements of the story could change prior to publication fyi.

Jennie Ransom finds herself in the middle of the apocalypse when UFO spaceships appear over cities on earth. Weeks later, everyone is trying to live a normal life but it all goes down the drain on one terrifying day.

What the heck happened? I loved this story, it was scary, creepy, and suspenseful. Absolutely the kind of zombie story that holds more realistic than some others do. It holds nothing back. There were creatures who scared the crap out of me, zombies which were true to real zombie lore and I hope I never come across either one of them.

Jennie finds herself holed up in her house with her brother Mickey and her parents when the stagnant UFO’s decide to release something new on earth: huge dog-like creatures. When her mother gets bit by one of them, her father takes her to the hospital to save her life. Trying to join her parents in the hospital, Jennie discovers that people are transforming into mindless flesh eating zombies from these bites and must escape from there to find a safe place. On the run with her brother, she meets sweet pastor named Billy Crawford who, with his wife, run a church sanctuary to help others during this time of starvation and danger. She also runs into a former teacher Hugh, who sees something in Jennie that sparks something more, and his devious brother is also in tow, a womanizing prick named Brad. When their attempt to find a better place to stay alive leads them all to a military base at Fort Monroe, where they should be safe, nothing is far from the truth as the aliens continue to appear.

I can’t wait for this book to release. It’s an epic, stunning adventure with some Christian elements involved, and a definite sci-fi twist with aliens and zombies abounding. A great chilling read!
...more

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Oct 19, 2013 C.P. rated it did not like it · review of another edition

Shelves: first-reads

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. *This book was provided to me free of charge courtesy of GoodReads First Reads*

If you love reading zombie/alien novels that are touted to be like Walking Dead but have the substance of a really bad Christian YA novel then this book is for you!

Needless to say, I was severely disappointed with this novel.
The description promised some great action with intriguing plot. Instead I suffered through a terrible main character, lots of badly developed side characters, and the main plot being absolutely ...more

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Sep 30, 2013 Y.I. Lee rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Sanctuary by Pauline Creeden is brilliant. It kept me up most nights way passed my bedtime. I got so involved with the characters I couldn't stop reading. The story is a great mix of horror, suspense, faith and a touch of romance. In parts it was so frightening; I found myself fearfully clutching my kindle, and wondering; what's going to happen next.
I like the way the author Pauline Creeden structured the book, giving each character, Jennie, Hugh and Brad their own chapters, and then bringing i ...more

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Sep 29, 2013 K.M. Carroll rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: thriller, horror

I was a beta reader for this book, and it was rough. I'd get sucked into the story and forget that I was supposed to be watching for typos.

This is an apocalypse book. Aliens are invading and turning people into zombies. The sun is dim and the air is cold. Society is beginning to collapse. The apocalypse is seen through the eyes of four characters, and their core personalities and values are brought to light by how they handle the aliens and zombies.

I had to keep getting up and checking to make s ...more

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Sep 22, 2013 Sandra "Jeanz" rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

INITIAL THOUGHTS
I am looking forward to reading this book. My favourite genres are dystopian & post apocalyptic. From the blurb I'd guess this book is post apocalyptic. The title of the book is "sanctuary" I presume the characters within the book find or create some sort of, 'safe haven' from whatever type of apocalypse has struck the world. Then upon reading the blurb, I saw that it wasn't my the usual type of global disaster apocalypse. In this book the apocalypse is because Aliens have landed
INITIAL THOUGHTS
I am looking forward to reading this book. My favourite genres are dystopian & post apocalyptic. From the blurb I'd guess this book is post apocalyptic. The title of the book is "sanctuary" I presume the characters within the book find or create some sort of, 'safe haven' from whatever type of apocalypse has struck the world. Then upon reading the blurb, I saw that it wasn't my the usual type of global disaster apocalypse. In this book the apocalypse is because Aliens have landed on earth. I don't normally enjoy "alien type stories" but am keeping an open mind as I approach reading this one.

MY REVIEW
I downloaded an ecopy of this book from Amazon UK when it was price promoted. I have promoted this author and her books on my blog in the past. I also read an excerpt from Survivor (the novella that is Book 2 in the Sanctuary End Times Series), and it made me want to read the series.
The cover of this book a crow sat on an outcropping of rocks looking into the sea for fish to eat. The background of the cover shows the skyline set against a damaged dimmer sun and dark clouds in the sky which creates atmosphere and adds to the post apocalyptic feel of the cover. So would the cover make me pick this one up from a book store shelf? I think being totally truthful whether I picked this book up or not would depend what was on the shelf around it. Being totally honest the cover alone would not urge me to pick this one up. It was the blurb that pulled my attention and made me ask enough questions to want to read and learn more.
Aliens have come to earth, they have attacked the sun causing it to be dimmer and not as strong or warm as it used to be. The aliens have also somehow poisoned the water supply, which has killed the fish, hence the crow on the cover, lonely and looking for food at the waters edge. The people on earth, including the military and government are just trying to stay indoors and are waiting for the aliens next move.
When the aliens make their move, no one is expecting it, or organised enough to deal with it. The military eventually prepare strategic military bases to take in survivors and provide a place of relative safety they can live in.
This book is told from various characters' points of view, what their life was before the aliens attacked, trapped in their homes watching the TV and listening to the news. The news people speak to various sources and a Dr call's the alien creatures "Shisa". The different characters also tell how they survived, the people and things they lost, as well as how they get to a military base. Then there's the question of are the military bases totally safe or will the aliens attack?
The Shisa are large dog like creatures that have hair like a lions mane with teeth like sharks! The Shisa have a long cat like tail that has a barb or sting on the end of it. The Shisa seem to attack people on a purely random basis, they then return and attack those same victims again. Could victims survive if they were bitten only once and then isolated and wait for the fever and poison to pass through their systems.
The two character's I really liked a lot and was rooting for them to survive throughout the book were Jennie and her little brother Mickey. Jennie has to be brave and grow up really quickly when she is left in charge of her and her younger brother survival in this new warped world. I also enjoyed reading about the too brothers Brad and Hugh. They are brothers but are so different, both feel a chemistry with Jennie when they first meet her. Brad is a womaniser who will spin whatever story and line he needs to, to get him where he wants to be and what he wants. Hugh is a "hot" biology teacher who taught at the school that Jennie attending, though he never taught her.
There are so many situations and scenarios that the characters have to go through, and deal with. From a parent who has been attacked locking his children away so he cannot hurt them when the "virus" gets a hold of him. Then there's a family that return to their home to hideaway and discover that all their food has been taken out of their home. They have been left with nothing. When they go to their once friendly neighbours to ask for shelter they find themselves being callously and rather blatantly ignored.
This book is not just about an apocalypse, it is about how people react to a threat they know nothing about.
The book does have a religious element to it, initially the Chapters begin with a quote from Revelations. There are also two religious characters in the form of Pastor Billy and his wife Mrs Crawfood. The Pastor and his wife station themselves at the church, as they think is the best place for them to help people. They offer "sanctuary" at the church and distribute what supplies of clothes and food they have between those survivors that have made it to the church. Pastor Billy, his wife and fellow survivors all board the church bus and head toward the military base that is taking people in.
So did I enjoy the book? Yes, it was a great mash up of Post Apocalyptic & Sci-fi genres. Would I recommend the book? Yes, I think it has a little something for everyone within this book. There's action, drama, mystery with a touch of betrayal, suspense and a hint of romance too. So it should appeal to a wide range of readers.
Would I want to read more in this series? Yes please! Although I have read an excerpt from the Survivor novella I would like to read the whole novella, and anything else that is written as part of this series. Would I want to read other titles by this author? Yes I throughly enjoyed the writing, descriptions and action in this book so I'd always check out the blurbs of anything written by this author in the future. ...more

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Nov 12, 2013 Kristin (Blood,Sweat and Books) rated it liked it

Sanctuary begins at the start of an alien apocalypse. The visitors whomever they may be haven't moved in six weeks and while the ships hovering over the Earth are troublesome for 19 year old Jennie life must go on. That is until the ships open and what emerges is neither man, nor friendly. Now in a race for their lives Jennie, her brother Mickey and a small group of survivors try to find sanctuary in what might be the last safe hold in the city.

Alien invasions mixed with Zombie-ish creatures is Sanctuary begins at the start of an alien apocalypse. The visitors whomever they may be haven't moved in six weeks and while the ships hovering over the Earth are troublesome for 19 year old Jennie life must go on. That is until the ships open and what emerges is neither man, nor friendly. Now in a race for their lives Jennie, her brother Mickey and a small group of survivors try to find sanctuary in what might be the last safe hold in the city.

Alien invasions mixed with Zombie-ish creatures is an interesting concept to me as I haven't really seen it done that much before. The "Aliens" or Shisa (cross between a lion and a dog, from Japanese mythology) as they would come to be called were as scary as they were unique. I liked that the Author didn't go the route of little green men holding "We come in Peace." signs or something like the Tripods from War of the World. I knew the doors on the ships were bound to open but never expected what appeared so that was a nice surprise.

Another thing I liked about the story was it's incredibly fast paced. I read this book in almost an entire sitting and only stopped because I needed to sleep. Of course this also hindered the story in some ways as the characters weren't really fleshed out as much as I'd of liked and also plot points were rushed.

Lastly, I liked the character Hugh. He was a man with a plan and was the only one to try and find a cure for the infected. Plus he's super swoon worthy so that certainly helped.

Now while I did enjoy Sanctuary I definitely think that the story had room for improvement.

One of my biggest gripes with the story were the characters. I just didn't really connect with any of them. In the beginning I liked Jennie she was independent, had a sense of humor and also seemed like a genuinely nice person. However, during the course of the book as the Infected numbers grew she lost that independent streak and instead turned into little miss Sunday School and I didn't really like that. Also she was deeply stupid at times. I get it your little brother is well, little but c'mon man stop babying him and have him help you already. He's going to see the Horror going on eventually so why not get it over and done with. I absolutely cannot stand when people try to baby kids during Apocalyptic situations. Toddlers maybe to an extent but the kid is 5 for Christ sakes. So much bad stuff could be avoided if people and in this case Jennie would just stop trying to shield him from everything and start using him as an asset albeit a tiny one. Oh and don't even get me started on her attitude towards Brad the hot younger brother to Hugh. She obviously missed the memo of Douchebag alert stay away. Speaking of Brad, What was the point of his character exactly? Just to prove not everyone was as good as those in the congregation? Or was it just to give us someone to hate cause if so, then the Author succeeded. Nothing redeemable about that character at all.

Another thing I didn't really like about Sanctuary was the way it rushed through certain plot points while dragging out others. We get plenty of back story on Brad, Hugh and the girl Clarrisa but come the big revelation with the character Phillip towards the end and it is glossed over with just a firm handshake and a pat on the back. It was so frustrating. Also I would've liked to know what happened with all the other survivors met along the way and why more hadn't found their way to the base. Surely they'd be sending out convoys to pick people up once the group from the Church mentioned those left behind. Unless of course they were to self absorbed in their own survival and safety to care. Which in all honesty is probably the case.

Lastly, I didn't like the ending and it's all brought back to Jennie. She went from being all gung ho about Brad to being completely in lust with Hugh and this is in the span of just days not even weeks. I'm starting to think she has some deep co-dependency issues or something. Also like I mentioned above I wanted to see Phillip more and the Scientists at the base talking excitedly about him pulling through. I mean this is the first real hope they have at helping those infected and it's just glossed over so Jennie can go back to thinking and worrying about Hugh. It was just so irritating even though deep down I did actually want them together.

Final Thoughts
Sanctuary isn't a perfect book by any means but in the end I did enjoy it and ultimately that is what matters. I know I'll be looking forward to the sequel whenever it releases. If you like shows like Jericho and Survivors or books like Logan Rutherford's The Visitors or Undead by Kirsty McKay than this book is definitely for you. With that being said, I'll be rating Sanctuary by Pauline Creeden ★★★.

*Copy reviewed provided by Author. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated in an which way for providing them. ...more

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Dec 07, 2013 Beverly rated it really liked it

Shelves: fantasy, thriller-suspense, sci-fi, christian-author, romance, suspense, young-adult, apocalypse, adventure

Right from the first chapter my attention was riveted and propelled forward by the fast paced story. The suspense didn't allow me to rest until I had finished the book a few hours later, with few interruptions, all in one sitting.

It was a little difficult for me to discern which genre this story fits most into, categorically. The opening event, an alien invasion, qualifies it as a science fiction tale with apocalyptic overtones when one third of the world's population is destroyed by the poison Right from the first chapter my attention was riveted and propelled forward by the fast paced story. The suspense didn't allow me to rest until I had finished the book a few hours later, with few interruptions, all in one sitting.

It was a little difficult for me to discern which genre this story fits most into, categorically. The opening event, an alien invasion, qualifies it as a science fiction tale with apocalyptic overtones when one third of the world's population is destroyed by the poisoned water supply and the darkening of the sun. Since it is fast paced and filled with suspense, I would also call this a thriller or suspense thriller.

When vicious lion-like dog creatures are released from the alien ships and began attacking people worldwide, the book ups the ante to the horror genre as these victims were infected with either parasites or a virus that removed their humanity turning them into zombie creatures that wouldn't die. For me, this part of the book was most disturbing with vivid scenes and some gore, since I try to avoid reading anything of this genre. The author's descriptive language is so effective it raised the hairs on my arms and sent a chill down my back while reading about the victims. However, for readers who enjoy the presence of zombies in their books, this could be appealing. The "wailers" become a major element of danger that drives the suspenseful action forward since it seems to be their goal to attack the uninfected and spread the disease.

One of the main characters central to this story is Jennie Ransom, a college student living at home between semesters. She was just about to return to school when her mother was attacked by the alien creatures, the event that set in motion the heart-pounding events to follow. Arriving at the hospital with her five-year-old brother Mickey in tow, Jennie witnessed horrors as the patients became violent before her eyes. She teamed up with Pastor Billy Crawford at the hospital to search for her parents, but eventually lost them both. She and Mickey found themselves in a struggle to survive. The pastor had already set up his church as a well-provisioned sanctuary for survivors; once she and Mickey arrived, Jennie found time for some soul searching. The young adult genre and spirituality can be added to the mix.

Another main character is high school biology teacher Hugh Harris, a scientist working on his PhD in animal behavior and psychology. During the televised coverage of the creature attacks, Hugh made several observations he wanted to share with authorities. When he learned that some military bases were opening to uninfected refugees, he was determined to leave the protection of his locked-down apartment complex to make his way to the nearest base. He encountered Jennie and Mickey on the way to join other survivors at the church sanctuary. In spite of the lack of electric power and fuel, a small group eventually made it to the military base nearby.

Even with military protection, the bases were still susceptible to attacks from marauding bands of creatures. At one point, the base where Pastor Crawford's group had found refuge was invaded; Hugh and the pastor were attacked and infected. Hugh survived but Pastor Crawford did not. It was then that Jennie realized she had feelings for Hugh, and likewise Hugh was attracted to the strong person Jennie was becoming in the face of all this tragedy. And what had seemed a completely hopeless situation before the scientist's arrival became hopeful. His observations may help some survive.

In spite of crossing a multitude of genre boundaries, including a little light romance, the author somehow makes it all work. There is a blend that makes this an exciting tale for many demographics. Since the story ended without a definite conclusion, I hope there are plans for a part two some time in the near future.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the author, Pauline Creeden and AltWit Press. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” ...more

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Sep 29, 2013 Sabrina Olteanu rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

I received this book in exchange for my honest review.

I’m not crazy about books with apocalypse and UFO spaceships , but I can’t give this book less that five stars! It’s amazing! It’s something else, different – in a good way, and they writing it’s spectacular. I was gripping my kindle because I was wondering what can happen next. Brilliant, I tell you!

Jennie Ransom is a college student who thought she had a normal life, until she was thrown into a life full of aliens. One day, UFO spaceships c ...more

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Sep 24, 2013 Casey Bond rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

My Review of Sanctuary by Pauline Creeden:

The Cover: The cover is amazing and is a beautiful graphic that conveys the overall feel of the book itself. I love it. The main character/female protagonist, Jennie is portrayed with the backdrop of a Church, the sanctuary for quite a good portion of the book until the characters are forced to move.

The Characters:
Jennie: She is a force to be reckoned with. She is brave, becomes a guardian of her younger brother, fights against all odds. Simply an am My Review of Sanctuary by Pauline Creeden:

The Cover: The cover is amazing and is a beautiful graphic that conveys the overall feel of the book itself. I love it. The main character/female protagonist, Jennie is portrayed with the backdrop of a Church, the sanctuary for quite a good portion of the book until the characters are forced to move.

The Characters:
Jennie: She is a force to be reckoned with. She is brave, becomes a guardian of her younger brother, fights against all odds. Simply an amazing young woman, whose faith never falters, even when the faith of everyone surrounding her pulls them down. She lifts up those around her. She "walks by faith, not by sight," and it is a wonderful thing to behold.
Hugh: A very young, former teacher at Jennie's high school. In the book, Jennie is a sophomore in college but remembers the crush a friend had on him in the past. There is definitely some sparks that fly between them, but can they overcome Hugh's brother, Brad and his "issues," as he pulls them into them.
Brad: Hugh's brother. Many readers would be angry at the things he does in the book, but I feel sorry for him. It's sad that someone has to live the way that he feels the need to. Anywho, not to ruin it..No spoilers from me!

The Plot: Okay. Wow! I thought it was brilliant. I have read Revelation and never dreamed of interpreting it this way. What a great way to think about things. Refreshing!

The story unfolds as aliens have come to earth after attacking the sun, which results in a dull orb where our beautiful light used to be. Soon, the aliens attack using really scary dog/lion-like creatures who bite people but leave them alive. Those who are bitten are infected and basically become walking zombies, who attempt to bite and infect the remaining healthy population. The story follows Jennie and her brother and a handful of others as they try to seek safety and freedom from the invading species. I really enjoyed the plot. It unfolded quickly and kept me on my toes. It was easy to follow and I loved the ending. I cannot wait to read more. I pray for a sequel! (Can you help us with that, Pauline?)

My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars. Well done, Pauline Creeden!!! Well done. I would recommend this book to anyone.

I did receive a free e-book ARC in exchange for this review...and I enjoyed every minute of it :) ...more

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Mar 06, 2014 Jo Michaels rated it it was amazing

Recommends it for: Lovers of zombie novels or apocalyptic fiction

Zombie novel? Love! Christian science fiction with zombies? Um... Wow. I had no idea what I was in for when I started this book. What an awesome twist on the biblical apocalypse. Rather than being some mutated disease causing people to start acting like zombies, what if it's an alien invasion? Well, this is the direction Sanctuary takes you in. Let's get to the good stuff, shall we?

From a Reader's Perspective:
I loved watching the main character, Jennie, come into her own through the story. When Zombie novel? Love! Christian science fiction with zombies? Um... Wow. I had no idea what I was in for when I started this book. What an awesome twist on the biblical apocalypse. Rather than being some mutated disease causing people to start acting like zombies, what if it's an alien invasion? Well, this is the direction Sanctuary takes you in. Let's get to the good stuff, shall we?

From a Reader's Perspective:
I loved watching the main character, Jennie, come into her own through the story. When we begin, she's a lot like any tween would be: Self-centered, technology reliant, BFF in place, and has dreams of what she plans to do with herself down the road. As the tale moved on, she becomes a strong, self-reliant young woman. This change was perhaps the most moving one in my eyes. Pacing through the story was great, and I loved the little twists and turns thrown in. Hugh was a great character and I'm eager to see how his relationship with Jennie develops in future books. Oh my goodness what a cliffhanger at the end! If you're not a huge fan of being left with a juicy bone dangling in front of you, the ending will be less than satisfying. But I loved it. I'm now chomping at the bit for the next installment. Aliens were a nice twist to the common zombie novel, but the thing I love most about them was still prevalent: human survival struggles. What would one do in any given situation when they're terrified out of their minds? There's plenty of that going on in Sanctuary. Having said that, let's move on to part two.

From an Editor's Perspective:
I found a few niggling little errors like: "...but she knew the door would be locked as the red sign on the door clearly stated they were sorry about." and: "The ideas spun in his Hugh's head like..." But none of them really took me out of the story, and there were only around fifteen in the whole book.

Rating:
+1 Star for bringing Jennie into her own via life and death events
+1 Star for pacing and plot (both were excellent)
+1 Star for the awesome twist on the cause of the zombie virus
+1 Star for plenty of human angst during a crisis situation that left me biting my nails
+.75 Star for writing and editing
-.25 Star for need for a proofreader to eradicate those tiny errors
Overall: 4.75 out of 5 stars! But I round UP, not down. Highly recommended if you love zombie novels or any book that's gonna make you think about your own humanity. ...more

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Aug 20, 2013 Ryan Snyder rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: hmaybe

4.5

I had read zombie invasion books before, but I had never read an alien invasion book before I picked this one up, so I was unsure what to expect. I mean, with aliens, the sky is the limit (haha) and I was gearing up for a book full of all sorts of freaky (albeit awesome) stuff. Imagine my surprise when there are aliens AND zombies. I was like.. whoah. Hold up. This just got AWESOME.

Yes, it is an apocalyptic end of human kind novel, so there is violence and scary elements in this book- like s 4.5

I had read zombie invasion books before, but I had never read an alien invasion book before I picked this one up, so I was unsure what to expect. I mean, with aliens, the sky is the limit (haha) and I was gearing up for a book full of all sorts of freaky (albeit awesome) stuff. Imagine my surprise when there are aliens AND zombies. I was like.. whoah. Hold up. This just got AWESOME.

Yes, it is an apocalyptic end of human kind novel, so there is violence and scary elements in this book- like seriously. O.O Scary. But I loved it! The villains were super monstrous and violent- yay! So the terror us up to par. *thumbs up*

The story is told in multiple POVs, (which I am okay with because I liked the other characters and their sides of what was going down) but focuses on a teenage girl and takes place AFTER the alien spacecrafts have already shown up and everyone has sort of been lulled into a sense of normality. There are just little spaceships hovering around, but they have not harmed anything (well, they poison the water, but do not become violent), so there are more of a tourist attraction than something many people are panicking about. Then out of nowhere- WHAM! Imminent alien destruction. *throws arms in air* Aliens start ATTACKING people- including jennie (the girl) and her family. Then ZOMBIES and alien creatures happen and.. .and... O.O Well, that's all you will get out of me about that. O.O

Jennie and her brother, Mickey, are endearing characters. There are a few other characters I became attached too and wanted to survive the zombie/alien/monster/destruction going on. And there were a few who I wanted to get eaten. or bitten. or just shot.. anyway, I did not like him. :D But everyone else was endearing and caring and sweet.

I feel like the ending left an opening for a second book. Maybe? Well, if there is one, I would love to read it, because this book was terrifyingly awesome.

If you enjoy a book with Alien destruction, Zombie action, diverse characters, christian elements, and APOCALYPTIC AWESOME, then I definitely recommend this book. (:
...more

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Oct 09, 2013 Pam rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: read-in-2013

Jennie is scared when the aliens arrive. Her friend and others think it is awesome but she is worried. When one third of the population dies from the aliens attacking the water supply the others have to worry when the next step will be. Jennie is stuck at home with her parent and little brother when they strike again. Now Jennie has to see if she can make it to safety with her little brother. Along the way she meets some new people and she sees she has the courage to go on. How far will the alie Jennie is scared when the aliens arrive. Her friend and others think it is awesome but she is worried. When one third of the population dies from the aliens attacking the water supply the others have to worry when the next step will be. Jennie is stuck at home with her parent and little brother when they strike again. Now Jennie has to see if she can make it to safety with her little brother. Along the way she meets some new people and she sees she has the courage to go on. How far will the aliens go and is there any way to stop them.

Jennie at first seems a timid scared person but as the book moves along you see she is very brave. She has to take care of herself and he little brother. She has to do some very hard things and really grows up and she struggle to survive. She also begins to have some feelings for Hugh who she knew before the attacks but she isn't sure about him. She has to sort through the lies and deception to see the real man beneath it. Hugh is so amazing. He is smart, sexy and has really gave thought to what the aliens are up to. He and Jennie may just be the key to the survival of humans.

I read this book in one sitting as it is a fascinating world the author has created. I have read a few books about aliens here lately but this one is different. It has a zombie like feel to it as well which I love. This is a fresh engaging read that I hated to see end. I really want more of it. I can't wait to see what happens next and how it will end. The book follows three characters that all intertwine later on. Brad, Hugh and Jennie. I like Jennie and Hugh but can't stand Brad. I love how the author added that Jennie's brother didn't like Brad but couldn't say why. Also this may be strange but I love the little things the author added to this book. One example is Jennie and her little brother riding in her car and his sippy cup is making a whistling noise. As a mom I can say that has drove me crazy in a car before. It's little things like that draw you in and you know she has spent time thinking things out. If you like a book about aliens, zombies or just want a fantastic story to read pick this one up. ...more

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Oct 01, 2013 Cianna Sunshine & Mountains Book Reviews rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: reviews-for-blog, arc

Grade: A
I love dystopian novels, and I love zombie novels, and when I read that this book seemed to have a way with both styles, I was excited to start reading my ARC! Pauline Creeden has written a wonderfully imaginative book that pulls readers into the story, and keeps them running to keep up. It’s perfect, realistic, and griping. I’d suggest it to anyone.
There are 3 characters which we really get to know, Hugh, a teacher, Jennie the main girl, and Brad the brother that stole Hugh’s girlfriend ...more

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Oct 03, 2013 Jessica rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: zombies

I was giving a copy of this Amazing book by the author in exchange for my honest review & here it is……

I absolutely love Sanctuary by Pauline Creeden. How could I not she took two of my favorite interests, aliens & zombies, and put them in one fantastic book. Sanctuary puts a whole new twist on the zombie genre & I haven’t read anything like it before. So many times when reading or watching something about zombies you get the feeling there is no hope, but not in Sanctuary. This story gives you h ...more

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Nov 15, 2013 Sharrice rated it liked it

Shelves: recieved-for-review

See my full review on my blog

I received a copy of Sanctuary for an honest review.

Sanctuary is a zombie, apocalyptic, horror, sci-fi, young adult, religious novel all rolled up into one story. Aliens have landed and after six months of nothing but destroying the human water supply they’re attacking. There are beasts called shisa which are lion-dog like animals who infect humans with an alien virus that causes them to become zombie like and attacking anything and everything and then dying five day ...more

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Oct 11, 2013 Elizabeth Alsobrooks rated it really liked it · review of another edition

This is one of those Apocolyptic novels that is marketed as YA and probably has a huge twenty-something fan base since the main character is a college student. But any age group will enjoy this novel.

As with many end of the world novels the young heroine struggles with her faith, and is taken in with her little brother by a minister and his wife, so there is a mild Christian theme to the story. Quotes from Revelations work well to tie the themes together.

Creeden has put a bit of a spin on the w ...more

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Oct 01, 2013 Shih-tzus Happens rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

My hat off to you my lady.
I was asked to read this book and give an honest review

“And out of the smoke locusts came down on the earth and were given power like that of scorpions of the earth. They were told not to harm the grass of the earth or any”
“plant or tree, but only those people who did not have the seal of God on their foreheads. (Revelation 9:3)”

Excerpt From: Creeden, Pauline. “Sanctuary.”

This book caught me at page one This is a powerful book packed full of love, courage,excitement ...more

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Oct 27, 2013 Darlene rated it it was amazing

Recommends it for: everyone

Recommended to Darlene by: Pauline Creeden

Shelves: beta-read

Received his an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. This is mine.
Sanctuary IS A THRILLER, faith base book, horror , an /an end of times all written in one.
The story starts out with a college student by the name roof Jeanne, who has come home because of the recent ale in attacks. The water is unfit to drink the fish are dieing off, the sun is not as bright any more. All since the aliens have arrived- they are only near the military bases (aliens that is). Jeanne and her frie ...more

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Nov 25, 2013 Sheila Hollinghead rated it it was amazing

Sanctuary defies placement in one genre. It is post-apocalyptic, horror, suspense, thriller, science fiction rolled into one. And add Christian to that.

Pauline Creeden is the author of numerous books. Her most recent, Armored Hearts, co-written with Melissa Turner Lee, was a bestseller in Christian Fantasy.

In Sanctuary, a young girl, Jennie must protect her younger brother from alien monsters--huge half lion/half dog-like creatures. But not just from the monsters themselves. The bites of these c ...more

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Sep 13, 2013 Autumn rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: 2013, the-light-bringers

I received this book to give an honest review.

With Sanctuary, you are thrown into the world of aliens (though there is not much talk about them) and the end of the world pretty much only with zombies. Yes I said zombies, but these zombies are not your run of the mill zombies. Jennie is a college student who finds herself thrown in the harsh world of the aliens. When tragic events happen to Jennie she is forced to fight for her and her brother's survival. I really felt bad for Mickey, Jennie's li ...more

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